Contempt(LE MÉPRIS)

Courted by Italian producer Carlo Ponti, Godard adapted Alberto Moravia’s novel about a scriptwriter working on an adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey, while struggling with his own failing marriage. Portrayed by Michel Piccoli and the radiant Brigitte Bardot, their relationship mirrors that of Ulysses and Penelope, especially once she catches the eye of Jack Palance’s playboy producer. Godard takes the story a step forward by projecting his own troubled relationship with Anna Karina onto his protagonists. What emerged was a visually ravishing story of cinema and relationships regarded as one of the director’s best works.

Cahiers du Cinéma: Best Film

24/6 (Sat): Film talk with May Fung